Colorado Springs Motorcycle Traffic Laws

From busy downtown streets to mountain routes near Pikes Peak, this area offers many memorable rides. Yet a misunderstanding about licensing or right-of-way rules can lead to a citation or a serious crash. Colorado Springs motorcycle traffic laws apply alongside the same speed and impaired-driving rules that govern other motorists.

After a collision, an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer at The Wilhite Law Firm can investigate how a rider or driver violated a safety law and how that conduct contributed to the crash and your injuries. We examine police reports and medical records to build a clear damages claim. Our team has served injured people for decades, bringing local commitment and national resources to every case. “Wilhite Wins.”

Rules That Apply to Motorcycle Riders

The traffic laws in Colorado Springs require motorcycle riders to hold a valid driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement. The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles explains that applicants can qualify through testing or an approved Motorcycle Operator Safety Training course. Riders younger than 18 must hold a motorcycle instruction permit for 12 months before adding the endorsement.

State law also regulates passengers and protective equipment. A motorcycle must have a seat and footrests for each passenger, and a rider cannot carry someone in a position that interferes with control. Under Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-4-1502, riders and passengers younger than 18 must wear an approved helmet. The state does not require helmets for adults, but wearing one can reduce the risk of a catastrophic head trauma.

All operators and passengers must also use approved eye protection. Local law enforcement states that a visor or approved goggles can satisfy the requirement, but a motorcycle windshield alone does not qualify.

When Is Lane Filtering Legal?

The lane-filtering rule is among the traffic rules in Colorado Springs that motorcycle drivers must follow. This rule allows a two-wheeled motorcycle to pass stopped vehicles traveling in the same direction under limited conditions. The motorcycle cannot exceed 15 miles per hour, and the roadway must provide enough space for safe passage. Surrounding conditions must also permit prudent operation, and the rider cannot use the shoulder or pass on the right side of the vehicle ahead.

The lane-filtering statute requires riders to stop passing when traffic begins moving, and traditional lane splitting through moving traffic remains prohibited. These distinctions matter on congested corridors such as Interstate 25 and Powers Boulevard. A rider who filters too fast or continues after traffic moves can receive a citation and face fault arguments after a crash.

Motorcyclists may ride no more than two abreast in one lane. Drivers, in turn, must give motorcycles the full use of a traffic lane and check blind spots before merging.

Traffic Violations and Motorcycle Injury Claims

A Colorado Springs motorcycle accident claim can depend on which party broke a traffic ordinance. A speeding driver or an unlawful lane change can support a negligence claim. A citation can provide useful evidence, but it does not automatically decide civil liability.

The state follows modified comparative negligence under Colo. Rev. Stat. § 13-21-111. You can recover compensation when your share of fault is less than the combined fault of the defendants, but the court reduces your recovery by your percentage of responsibility. Evidence that another driver violated a safety rule can make a direct difference in your recovery.

Our team also reviews local evidence, including police reports. We use the available proof to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, motorcycle damage, and other losses you may have.

Contact a Colorado Springs Attorney About Motorcycle Traffic Laws

Knowing the rules can protect you on the road, but legal compliance cannot prevent every negligent driver from causing harm. After a collision, act promptly to preserve evidence and protect your rights under Colorado Springs motorcycle traffic laws.

Call The Wilhite Law Firm now, or chat with our team today. We will explain your options and take decisive action against the responsible party. There are no fees unless your case is successful.